Dr. Neil Theise - Exploring Complexity and the Science of Belonging

Episode 64 of What Gives?—the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network, hosted by JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny. In this episode, we learn about the intersections of science, spirituality, and community with Dr. Neil Theise. Neil is a professor of pathology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and a pioneer in the fields of adult stem cell plasticity and the framework of the body's internal support system. In his book Notes on Complexity, Neil explores how complexity theory not only unravels the mysteries of biology and physics but also offers a profound lens through which we can view society, spirituality, and even Jewish communal life. In this conversation, we’ll talk about how complexity theory reshapes our understanding of leadership, community resilience, and the power of relationships, as well as Neil’s personal journey—from considering rabbinical school to becoming a Zen Buddhist and a leading pathologist. This is a conversation that connects atoms to cities, stem cells to spirituality, and Jewish identity to the fabric of the universe.